Pelagic Blog

Key Questions a Finance Manager Should Ask a Lender at a Commercial Truck Dealership

Written by Greg Minsky | Oct 18, 2024 3:02:31 PM

o match the right financing option to the dealership’s needs.

2. What Are the Interest Rates and Fees?

Interest rates and fees can significantly impact the total cost of borrowing. It’s important to ask about the interest rates, annual percentage rates (APR), and any additional fees such as origination fees and closing costs.

3. What Are the Loan Terms and Repayment Schedules?

Details about the length of the loan, repayment frequency, and any flexibility in the repayment schedule are crucial for financial planning. This helps in aligning the loan terms with the dealership’s cash flow.

4. What Are the Eligibility Requirements?

Knowing the eligibility requirements upfront can save time and effort. Finance managers should ask about the credit score requirements, financial documentation needed, and any other criteria that the lender has.

5. What Is the Minimum FICO Score Required?

Most lenders require a minimum FICO score of around 550 for commercial truck loans. Understanding this requirement helps in assessing whether the dealership or its customers meet the criteria.

6. Is a Personal Guarantee Required?

A personal guarantee can have significant implications. It’s important to understand whether a personal guarantee is necessary and what it entails before proceeding with a particular lender.

7. What Is the Approval Process and Timeline?

Knowing the steps involved in the loan approval process and the typical timeline from application to funding helps in managing expectations and planning accordingly.

8. Are There Any Prepayment Penalties?

Prepayment penalties can affect the dealership’s strategy for managing its debt. It’s essential to know if there are penalties for paying off the loan early.

9. What Support and Relationship Management Services Are Offered?

Inquiring about ongoing support, such as account management and assistance with future financing needs, ensures a long-term beneficial relationship with the lender.

Conclusion

By asking these key questions, finance managers can make informed decisions and secure the best possible financing arrangements for their dealership. This not only helps in managing the dealership’s finances effectively but also ensures that customers get the best deals.